How To Change Your Hair Color Without Dye

While the idea of permanently dyeing my hair has never really enticed me, I will admit that I've often thought about what it would be like to sport a color (or colors) that are not naturally my own. So it would be helpful to have a way to change your hair color without actually dyeing it. Especially after helping a number of my friends bleach and dye their hair, I have to say that the fumes, the damage, and the upkeep that go into it can be a little much; particularly if you tend to be a bit lazier when it comes to haircare.

I won't lie. I still get hit with pangs of nostalgia and thoughts of "What if?" whenever I pass a Manic Panic display. But then I remember that I enjoy my daily one-minute hair routine, and think of all the different ways I could temporarily change my color without having to dye it. After all, there are plenty of options to dissuade pursuing fleeting desires with permanency. Plus, my personality doesn't really suit making changes to my body that can't be easily washed off. So if, like me, you enjoy the idea of switching things up, but don't want to make a new appearance official, here are seven ways that you can alter your hair color without actually dyeing it.

1. Extensions

Best Hair Buy 7pcs Body Wavy Clip In Remy Hair Extensions, $69, Best Hair Buy

If you want to try on an ombre trend without having to dye any strands, try clipping in some extensions. While you can select extensions that are a few shades lighter or darker than your natural hue, you can also select extensions that are a fun color like pink or purple, or even permanently dye extensions to your ideal hue.

2. Colored Hairspray

Jerome Russell Bwild Temporary Hair Color Spray, $6, Amazon

A colored hairspray will allow you to try on a light wash of color all over or even richer color on more concentrated areas. It all depends on how you apply it. But whatever you choose, there's no commitment. It'll rinse right out.

3. Hair Chalk

Brite Organix Liquid Hair Chalk, $12, Urban Outfitters

Mix and match various colors throughout your strands with hair chalk. No matter what your natural color is, this method will deliver vibrant hues to your tips.

4. Wigs

Ebingoo 2 Tones Synthetic Lace Front Wig Ombre Hand Tied Wavy Silver Wig Dark Roots Heat Resistant Fiber Hair 18 inches, $33, Amazon

Say what you will about Kylie Jenner, but girl's wig game is on point. Take a cue from her and try rocking different wigs if you like to switch up your look without incurring all the damage from using bleach and dye.

5. Hair Mascara

Kryolan Aquacolor Hair Mascara, $12.50, Kryolan

For more precise color application, try hair mascara. The wand will help achieve the look of highlights than can easily be washed out with shampoo.

6. Hair Powder

FHI Brands Hair Veil Powder Hair Filler, $20, Amazon

Try out the darker-roots trend by dusting a brown or black hair powder along your part. A quick wash will have your roots back to normal in no time.

7. Temporary Dye

Splat Washables Hair Color, $7, Target

If you want to try out a color for longer than a couple of washes, use a temporary dye that will give you enough days to decide if you like the look without permanently altering your hair. It's fun to mix it up, right?

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